I'm stuck on what to do, can anyone help?
I'm about to enter 10th grade and right now I'm stuck between becoming an elementary teacher or enlisting in the military. I'm in EdRising for becoming a teacher and in the NJROTC program at my school to seek a path in the military. I honestly don't know which to choose, if anyone from any pathway can give me suggestions or feed back it would be greatly appreciated.
10 answers
Karissa’s Answer
Ross’s Answer
For example, While you are in the military, buy a house, live in it and fix it up in your spare time. If you get transferred, rent the house out and buy a new house, repeat. Do this any time you can and you will be wealthy living off of your real estate income and teaching with no worries.
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John Medeiros MS EHS
John’s Answer
After a few years of service, your enlistment will be over, and you can choose to leave or reenlist. Many do get out and use the benefits they have earned to get an education and begin completely different careers. Through the GI Bill, they accomplish their education and move on with life without the debt of student loans. Yes, they are a few years older and wiser, but you leave with many skills employers seek.
Suppose you wish to become a teacher. From my understanding, you are choosing to go to college, get a four-year degree, and, depending on your state, get additional certificates. In many states, they require continuing education and/or a master's degree. There will be student loans and hours of training needed.
I suggest that you sit down with some of your teachers and a recruiter from a branch of your choosing before you decide on either career. My advice is to do your research. Both paths have benefits and life-changing choices, which you will have to stick with. Please remember that making our own choices in life is really the only freedom we have.
Best of luck.
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Katie’s Answer
Katie recommends the following next steps:
Chinyere’s Answer
Choosing Your Path: Teacher or Military?
That's a big decision! Both paths offer unique rewards and challenges. Let's break down some potential factors to help you decide:
What Interests You?
Teaching: Do you enjoy working with children? Are you passionate about shaping young minds? Do you find fulfillment in helping others learn and grow?
Military: Do you thrive in structured environments? Are you drawn to leadership roles? Do you value teamwork and service to your country?
Your Skills and Values
Teaching: Are you patient, empathetic, and good at communicating? Do you enjoy problem-solving and adapting to different learning styles?
Military: Do you possess physical fitness, discipline, and a strong sense of duty? Are you able to follow orders and work well under pressure?
Career Goals and Lifestyle
Teaching: Consider the work-life balance, job security, and potential for advancement in the education field.
Military: Think about the travel opportunities, benefits, and potential career paths within the military.
Exploring Your Options
Shadowing: If possible, shadow a teacher or a military professional to gain firsthand experience.
Research: Learn more about the day-to-day responsibilities, educational requirements, and career paths for both options.
Talk to Mentors: Discuss your options with teachers, military personnel, or guidance counselors who can offer valuable insights.
Potential Hybrid Paths
Teach in a Military School: Combine your passion for teaching with your interest in the military.
Utilize Military Skills in Education: Transfer leadership and teamwork skills to the classroom.
Remember, there's no right or wrong answer. The best path is the one that aligns with your personal values, goals, and interests. Take your time, explore your options, and trust your gut.
Best wishes!
Kimberly’s Answer
The military can help you in whatever you decide to do and looks great on a resume. So even if you join the military and then decide to do something else, the military background will always help you. Best of luck.
Kevin P’s Answer
I would love the opportunity to learn more about why you decided on these two paths. It seems like something or someone has opened your eyes to these paths. However, in case I never get the answer to that, I would you to ask yourself this question, why not do both?
In order to be a teacher you will need a college degree and it appears education is important to you. You can enlist in the military as a reservist. This means you are in the military part time. Once you have a degree, you can also become an Officer as a reservist. You are able to be in the military and be a teacher at the same time.
I have been in the Army Reserve for over 18 years. I joined right after I graduated high school. However, kind of like you, I wanted another career. I was very confused on what I wanted, I decided on both. I wanted to go into banking and I wanted to be in the Army.
I graduated high school in May, went to Basic Training in June. I finished basic in November, took about 6 weeks off to enjoy Thanksgiving and Christmas and then I started college in January. The best part, the Army paid for my college degree.
This path does not work for everyone. It was a very unique path. However, reading your question I remembered having the same one. One good life lesson, when you have to choose between two things, try to take both. I did and it was the second best decision of my life. The first was marrying my best friend. Good luck.
Hazel’s Answer
I've got some personal experience in this area. I served in the Army during my high school ROTC days. One of my brothers is currently an Army officer, and my husband, another brother, and my son are all part of the Air Force family. My daughter and another brother serve in the Navy.
Serving in the military is more than just a job. It's a learning experience that instills discipline, fosters self-respect, and promotes teamwork. Plus, you're earning money while doing it! You'll have medical coverage and a secure place to live. You can start with a short-term commitment and if you find it suits you, you can extend your contract when it's up for renewal.
I also strongly advise you to make the most of the educational opportunities the military offers. The government will cover your tuition, and you might even get to travel. Wishing you the best in your journey!
Warm regards,
Hazel
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